Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I thank the Acting Chairman for the opportunity to speak on recent developments in the North of Ireland and the St. Andrews talks. I wish the Taoiseach and the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, well and offer my full support on this very important national issue.

I have some concerns about the delays and posturing which are taking place. I urge caution on the part of the Taoiseach when dealing with negotiations. I urge caution when dealing with the DUP and the British Government. Historically Britain has employed strategies of deception to obtain its diplomatic objectives. These tactics seek to deceive opponents into believing they are working towards one goal when they are working towards another one more compatible with British interests. I raise these issues to urge the Taoiseach to keep his eye on the ball and not be distracted by a sophisticated British agenda, supported by their two-nations supporters in this State. The Taoiseach's job is to represent the people on the island, as Tony Blair represents his interests. I particularly address these comments to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy McDowell.

I find it totally unacceptable that in the middle of a peace process, with all the talk of disarmament, one side to the conflict, the British, is building a vast new MI5 spying centre in Holywood, County Down. This raises serious questions about Britain's real intentions in Ireland. It is simply not good enough and I expect a strong response from our Government. After all, these are the people who were involved in the killing of Pat Finucane and in planting bombs in Dublin and Monaghan in 1974.

We are all working hard to remove the guns from Irish politics, yet these military spooks want to build spying centres in County Down. This hypocrisy must be challenged.

Following the DUP's recent attempts to move the goalposts, most people on the island are now becoming sick and tired of its antics. It must respect democracy and come into the real political world where difference and diversity are accommodated. The DUP cannot be allowed to destroy the agreement and block the path of the vast majority of the Irish people, Roman Catholic, Protestant, Muslim, Jew and dissenter. The DUP must be told it is not entitled to stop the will of the Irish people.

We should never be afraid to say where we stand politically. I stand for Irish unity and independence, and by the teachings of Tone and Connolly, and will work with English, Scottish and Welsh democrats to bring about change, justice, equality, unity and peace on our island.

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